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How To Look After Your Aging Skin: A Pharmacist's Guide to Skincare After 50

If you’re seeking the inside scoop on aging skin care, step into the laboratory of skincare wisdom. Our founder, Sharmani, a pharmacist and a mature woman herself, expertly blends science with style to unveil the art of aging gracefully. Ready for a journey that’s as scientific as it is fabulous? Shop Active Treatment Serums Is 45 Too Late to Start A Skincare Routine? It’s never too late! Dive into the world of timeless beauty with three main products, the Holy Grail for mature skin: Sunscreen Vitamin C (like the triple combination of vitamin C and antioxidants found in our Glow Getter3 Serum) Retinoids, like the powerful, yet gentle retinaldehyde combined with other highly active ingredients in our Advanced+ Renewal Serum. These three products should form the foundation for your aging skin care regimen. What Should My Skincare Routine Be at 50? Whether you started earlier or are just embarking on your serious skincare journey at 50, there’s no wrong time to craft a precise skincare routine. The same principles apply to 50-something skin as it does in your 40s: sunscreen, vitamin C, and retinoids. And because 50-something skin can start to experience dryness, make sure you have a good moisturizer like our Daily Infusion+ on hand. This hydrating powerhouse keeps your skin’s balance in check. How Can I Make My Aging Skin Look Better? To minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and leave your skin looking radiant and glowing, elevate your skincare routine with our Radiant Skin Set, which combines a morning and nighttime serum (Glow Getter3 and Advanced+ Renewal) for radiant and youthful-looking mature skin. Make sure to use something to combat dryness, which can age skin. Should You Use Retinol in Your 50s? Absolutely, let science lead the way! Retinoids are backed by oodles of evidence to show that they stimulate collagen production, bidding farewell to fine lines and wrinkles. They also increase skin cell turnover, fight hyperpigmentation, and even increase your skin’s moisture content, helping to combat dryness. Think of retinoids as your skin’s secret weapon, deployed under the cover of night. (retinoids should be applied at night because they are sensitive to sunlight and prone to degradation when exposed to UV rays.) We’re huge fans of the benefits that come with retinaldehyde, found in our Advanced+ Renewal Serum. What is the Best Skin Care Routine for Women Over 50? For actual results (not overhyped nonsense), get started with our Ageless Skin Set. In addition to our two serums, Glow Getter3 and Advanced+ Renewal, we include our hydrating Daily Infusion+ Moisturizer and Amazing Clean, an exfoliating cleanser (but caution sensitive skin with this one!) It contains the essentials for better looking skin–just add sunscreen. What is a Good Skin Care Routine for Aging Skin? Crafting a good skincare routine for mature skin isn’t as difficult or as confusing as you may imagine. Start with cleansing, which helps remove dirt and make-up and provides a clean canvas to help absorb other products. Next, prevent damage and protect skin with antioxidants and sunscreen. Finally, add in a retinoid treatment to rejuvenate and perfect skin. Nourishing face oils like our Antioxidant Face Oil and performance moisturizers like our Daily Infusion+ Moisturizer help keep mature skin protected against dryness, which can emphasize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. What is the Best Treatment for Aging Skin? The ultimate treatment for mature skin? It’s about finding the right products that work for YOUR skin and using them consistently. Beautiful skin doesn’t happen overnight or by chance. It’s a combination of a number of factors, including your lifestyle, your genetics and the skincare products you use. Eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, manage stress. Then add in scientifically proven ingredients and use them consistently in your skincare routine. Find products and a program that works for you and stick with it. It can take weeks to months to notice a difference. But stay with it, and you’ll reap the benefits. Dos and Don’ts For Skincare After 50 Now, let’s dive into the two most important Dos and Don’ts for skincare after 50. ✅ Do embrace a consistent routine tailored to your skin’s needs. ❌ Don’t skip sunscreen; it’s your best defense against premature aging. Should You Use Anti-Aging Products? Let’s challenge the term “anti-aging.” At Apothekari, we believe in embracing the beauty of getting older. Anti-aging suggests a fight against the natural process of aging, while we encourage a celebration of the journey and caring for your skin gracefully. We’ve long dropped this term from our marketing and we think it’s high time that everyone else does too! How to Care for Oily Mature Skin If you’re dealing with oily aging skin, embrace balance. Cleanse with our Amazing Clean, designed for exfoliation without irritating. Use lightweight moisturizers like our Daily Infusion+ to hydrate without causing excess oil. Retinoids like the retinaldehyde found in our Advanced+ Renewal Serum have been shown to minimize the appearance of blemishes and breakouts due to their impact on managing oil production and antibacterial effects. If you find yourself starting to breakout like you did in your teens, Advanced+ Renewal may just save the day! How Can I Make My Aging Skin Look Better? We really don’t think there’s a better place to start seeing a transformation in your mature skin than by elevating your routine with our Radiant Skin Set. This duo of serums (Glow Getter3 and Advanced+ Renewal) works in harmony for radiant, youthful-looking skin. As you gracefully move through your 60s and 70s, continue with the same Apothekari products that are working for you. There’s no need to change things up because your skin doesn’t become immune to the effects of a good skin care product. If you notice that your skin becomes drier or more sensitive, look for moisturizers that deliver heavy-duty results. Or consider adding in a face oil. You may also notice dryness in areas besides your face. It’s one of the reasons that we developed More Than Lip Service. This vulvar and vaginal moisturizer delivers fast, long-lasting, and hormone-free relief from the pain, burning, and irritation that many women experience down there as they get older. Explore how our range adapts to the evolving needs of your skin, ensuring a radiant and healthy complexion. Here’s to timeless elegance, no matter your age.

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Safest Sunscreen | What to Look For

These days, most of us are becoming increasingly concerned about what we put on our skin. So, it’s no surprise that when the sun is shining brightly, we seek the safest sunscreen possible. Is There a Sunscreen That Isn’t Bad for You? There’s a lot of information circulating about the potential dangers of sunscreens and their alleged link to skin cancer. However, it’s important to acknowledge that there is very little to no evidence linking sunscreen use with developing skin cancer, despite what the fear mongers perpetuate online. What is the Safest Kind of Sunscreen to Use? In fact, medical health professionals, including trusted organizations such as, The Canadian Dermatology Association, The American Academy of Dermatology, The Skin Cancer Foundation, The Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, all recommend sunscreen and sun protection as the number one defense against developing skin cancer. The safest sunscreen is one that protects your skin against damaging ultraviolet light and that you will use all the time! In this post, let’s dive deeper into what’s available today to help you find the best fit for your needs. Which Sunscreen is Better Chemical or Mineral? Sunscreen filters are generally categorized into two main types: physical/mineral filters (inorganic) and chemical (organic) filters. There are only two physical blocking filters—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Everything else is a chemical filter. Both types are effective, and you’ll often find both a physical and a chemical filter in a sunscreen formulation, which can be a way to get the best of both worlds. Chemical filters interact with our skin’s surface, absorbing UV rays and converting them into harmless energy. Physical filters on the other hand, sit on top of the skin. They also and work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into harmless energy blocking. However, they have the additional action of being able to block or deflect UV rays. As a result, physical blocking sunscreens may feel thicker in texture compared to chemical blocking ones, due to their different mechanisms of action. We’ve posted before about sunscreen ingredients and hope that the chart below helps as well. Which is the Best Chemical Free Sunscreen? Everything is a chemical so it’s impossible to answer this question (even though it gets asked quite a lot!). If you’re worried about the impact of your personal care products on your health, be assured that cosmetics, including sunscreens—which are regulated as drugs in some countries—are overseen by government bodies to ensure their safety and effectiveness. If you want a sunscreen with minimal absorption, check out our chart below for sun filters that fit the criteria, which include not only physical blocking zinc oxide and titanium dioxide but many other chemical filters as well. What is the Safest SPF for Sunscreen? Whether physical or chemical, sunscreens need to protect against two types of UV rays: UVA rays, which are the longer penetrating rays that contribute to skin aging UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is only an indication of UVB protection and most skincare professionals recommend a minimum of SPF 30 for adequate protection. There isn’t a universally recognized rating for UVA protection, and you’ll find several different criteria, depending on where you live: Broad Spectrum (Canada/USA) UVA-PF (Europe/UK) PA/PPD (Japan/Korea) What does matter is that you choose a sunscreen that protects against both types of UV rays. What is the Healthiest Safest Sunscreen? The healthiest safest sunscreen is one that has been produced in a lab with appropriate testing before it’s sold to you. Regardless of the ingredients they contain, sunscreens are regulated by bodies including Health Canada and The FDA. They must go through rigorous testing to ensure that they provide adequate protection. Different regulations exist in other countries, but the advice is to stick with reputable brands. Creating an effective sunscreen is a very complicated process. You can’t just slap some zinc oxide into coconut oil and call it a day. Don’t listen to anyone who tells you it’s safe to do that either! What Sunscreen is Safe for Face? Whether for face or body, buying your sunscreen from a trustworthy brand, helps to guarantee its safety. And while there’s little to no difference in terms of the protection between sunscreen for your face and sunscreen for your body, you may find that sunscreens made for the face are more pleasant to use—less greasy, less white cast, etc. That’s not always the case, but that’s been my experience. What Ingredient to Avoid in Face Sunscreen? There aren’t any specific sunscreen filters you must avoid when it comes to choosing a face sunscreen. It all really comes down to personal preference and your skin’s needs: Avoid ingredients that you are allergic or sensitive to Stay away from fragrances that you find overwhelming or that irritate your skin Love the formulation. If you don’t, you won’t be using it! What Sunscreen is Best for Coral Reefs? If you’re worried about the damage that your scuba or snorkelling adventure may be inflicting upon coral reefs, you’re not alone. Alarming headlines suggest that sunscreen, and in particular, two filters—oxybenzone and octinoxate—are harming our reefs. What you need to know is that most of this research looking at the harmful effects of sunscreen ingredients on coral reefs and other aquatic organisms has been done in a lab, and lab studies can tell only part of the story. (You can read more here). Most scientists maintain that sunscreen ingredients aren’t the sole cause of the harm to coral reefs, they are only one part of a larger issue. There are lots of other stressors on coral reefs, including rising sea surface temperature; sewage and wastewater entering the ocean; and human impact. A 2021 review, published in the journal Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, analyzed data from 12 studies of sunscreen ingredients and their effect on coral. The researchers concluded that while there’s ample proof that UV filters are found in ocean waters, there’s limited evidence that their presence is causing significant harm to coral reefs. More studies to evaluate the toxicity of sunscreen ingredients in real-world settings are needed. What Kind of Sunscreen is Reef Safe? Despite what the marketing labels may indicate, there’s no standard or regulated meaning behind “reef safe” or “reef friendly.” Some sunscreens with those claims avoid oxybenzone or octinoxate. Others include only minerals (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) or contain a mix of mineral and chemical ingredients. The definition of is really up to whoever sells the formulation. Plus, we don’t know if products labeled ‘reef safe’ really are better for the environment or not. In fact, while many “reef safe” sunscreens contain only mineral ingredients, a 2014 study found that titanium dioxide in the water produced hydrogen peroxide, a chemical that’s harmful to marine organisms. How Can I Maximize My Sun Protection? While using sunscreen is absolutely important, it’s also important to be smart in the sun: Cover up with sunglasses, long sleeves Seek shade Avoid sun during peak hours of 10 am – 4 pm. Include antioxidants like Glow Getter in your skincare routine. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause cellular damage and contribute to premature aging. By incorporating antioxidants into your sunscreen, you can enhance the overall protection it provides. Stay safe and enjoy the sun responsibly!

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Funky Menopause Odor? Here’s What's Causing It & This Is How to Treat It

If you’re a woman, the menopause transition can bring about many changes in your body, influenced mainly, by shifts in your hormone levels. Shop All Apothekari Natural Deodorants While we’re all familiar with hot flashes and mood swings, you may be experiencing many other unwelcome symptoms, including menopause odor—or changes in the way that you normally smell. One day, you may wake up and detect a different odor, not just in your armpits and feet, but also your groin. You may wonder what the heck is happening, especially in addition to many of the other unexpected symptoms that you’re suddenly having to cope with. Let’s look at what’s behind these changes, the impact they can have on your confidence and discuss options about how to help minimize odor during menopause and beyond. Body Odor Menopause. Why Do I Smell So Bad? During menopause, women experience a drop in in estrogen levels. The estrogen hormone plays a crucial role in regulating body temperature and controlling sweat gland activity. And, as estrogen levels decline, the production of sweat and the composition of sweat changes, leading to alterations in body odor. The menopausal drop in estrogen affects the apocrine glands, which are responsible for producing sweat that contains proteins and fats, compounds that interact with bacteria on the skin’s surface, leading to the release of distinct odors. This is in comparison to the eccrine glands, which are located all over the body and which secrete a clear thin watery sweat, that doesn’t contain nourishment for odor causing bacteria. As a result, menopause odor from sweating may have a stronger, more pungent smell compared to before. Where Can You Get Body Odor During Menopause? Human body odor is a normal (albeit annoying) human experience that occurs at every stage of life. You can get menopause body odor anywhere you normally sweat, like your armpits and groin. That said, you may notice that you smell in, well, places you’re just not used to smelling bad. During menopause, the drop in estrogen can lead to an increased vaginal pH. Normal vaginal odors are mild or odorless, but if you notice that the smell is “fishy” or stronger in general, it may be time to see your doctor. Does Menopause Cause More Body Odor? Hormone imbalances and body odor often go together. Dips in estrogen can trigger hot flashes and night sweats, meaning you simply sweat more, which in turn can result in more odor. This is also a time of life filled with high levels of anxiety or stress, which can make you sweat, too. The shift in hormonal balance that occurs during menopause can lead to stronger body odor. Estrogen and progesterone levels fall relative to your testosterone, while cortisol tends to increase. Higher levels of both testosterone and cortisol have been linked to stronger body odor. You may also notice bad smells in places that didn’t smell bad before, including the skin around your vagina. This may necessitate a visit to your doctor. More on this below. Why Do My Armpits Smell Now That I’m Older? You may be surprised to learn that your body odor naturally changes as you age. In addition to hormonal changes that may be occurring—a drop in estrogen along with relatively higher levels of testosterone—there may also be increased levels of a compound called 2-nonenal, which has an unpleasant greasy and grassy odor and which tends to be detected only in people aged 40 or more. It’s no wonder that your armpits—along with other body parts—may start smelling funkier than before. Why Can I Smell Myself Even After a Shower? Bacteria love hiding in hair! If you still smell a strong body odor after a bath or a shower, using a good cleanser or soap, consider shaving the hair in your armpits, groin, and chest. The hair’s surface is a perfect place for bacteria to call home, and it’s harder to eliminate them from the hair than your bare skin. Why Do I Smell Down There Even After I Shower? Vaginal odor can be caused by diet, sweating, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. It can sometimes also be caused by infections like bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis. Can Menopause Cause a Fishy Odor? When estrogen levels fall, it leads to a decrease in the levels of Lactobacillus bacteria, which are protective to the vaginal area.Estrogen also helps to maintain the acidity of the vagina, preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms. The disruption in pH balance can lead to an increase in harmful microbes, that produce “smelly” molecules, that now thrive within the vaginal microbiome, causing changes in vaginal odor. These changes in body odor can have a significant impact on your self-esteem and confidence, leaving you feeling self-conscious and uncomfortable, especially in social situations. It’s important to address these concerns to ensure that you maintain a positive body image and overall well-being during menopause. How Can I Stop My Body From Smelling During Menopause? Hot flashes and night sweats can’t be ruled out completely, and there’s very little that you can do to alter changing hormone levels. However, there are a few things that you can do to help minimize menopause odor, specifically: Stave off Dehydration. Hot flashes may have you sweating more, contributing to dehydration during menopause. If you’re not drinking enough water to make up for the loss, your body fluids become more concentrated. This applies not only to your sweat, but also your urine. Concentrated urine is dark in color; concentrated sweat leads to a more potent smell when the bacteria have their way with it. Stress Less. For many women, the menopause transition can be stressful. Hot flashes, mood changes (anxiety, depression, rage), forgetfulness and sleeplessness all disrupt your life in not so good ways. Stress sweat comes from your apocrine glands and compared to body-cooling sweat, (which is produced by eccrine glands), is thicker and richer in nutrients, which bacteria thrive on, leading to an increase in menopause odor. Ditch the Synthetics. Nylon, polyester and other synthetic fabrics cause you to sweat more. They also can retain body odor more. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, wool, linen or silk, which help you stay cooler and drier, and don’t retain odors as much. Pay Attention to What You Eat. Some foods and drinks can lead to more pungent body odor. This includes meat, spicy foods, caffeine, garlic, onions and alcohol. It’s not the same for everyone so experiment to see if eliminating any helps. What Home Remedy is Good for Body Odor During Menopause? There are many natural remedies to consider, including: Black cohosh Ginseng Kava Red clover, and Evening primrose oil Although often recommended to help with the sweating that may lead to menopause odor, there’s not a ton of research proving that they work. Which Deodorant is Best for Menopause Odor? You wouldn’t be here if you haven’t noticed that your body is starting to smell differently, regardless of whether you’re at or approaching menopause. If you’re finding that the deodorant or anti-perspirant that you’ve been using for years isn’t cutting it any longer to help manage menopause odor, you’re going to feel more self-conscious. For the reasons explained above, even the feeling in your armpits may be different—stickier and heavier. While these changes may be normal, they’re not necessarily pleasant so it may be time to try something new. When it comes to odor control, you have 2 main options: Anti-perspirants contain ingredients like aluminum salts that help reduce perspiration. These compounds work by temporarily blocking or narrowing sweat ducts, thereby reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the skin’s surface. By minimizing sweat production, antiperspirants indirectly contribute to reducing menopause odor or other body odor as there is less moisture available for bacterial activity. Deodorants, like our range of spray deodorants, which work in several ways to combat menopause odor: Mask Odor: Fragrances or essential oils with pleasant scents are used to cover up any unwanted smells, providing a more appealing scent. (Often these can smell like fake flowers covering up funky smells – eww no thanks) Antimicrobial Action: It’s the bacteria that live on your skin that down sweat into smelly compounds, which lead to body and menopause odor. Ingredients like triclosan, alcohol, or tea tree oil reduce the bacterial population, minimizing the production of unpleasant odors. pH Adjustment: Sweat is naturally slightly acidic, and this acidity helps inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Deodorants with slightly acidic formulations (low pH), like ours, create an environment on the skin’s surface that is less favorable for bacterial growth, reducing odor. Conversely, you can have alkaline formulations (high pH) which also do that. However, high pH deodorants, like the ones that contain baking soda, often are highly irritating to skin, leading to rashes and redness. Odor Neutralization: Some deodorants utilize ingredients that directly target and neutralize odor-causing compounds. For instance, activated charcoal or odor neutralizing enzymes can absorb and/or neutralize odor molecules, helping to eliminate unpleasant smells. Probiotics: Help to increase the concentration of non-odor producing bacteria. Apothekari’s Natural Spray Deodorants to the Rescue for Menopause Odor! Our triple odor protection formulation contains: Alpha Hydroxy Acid to keep odor causing bacteria in check Probiotics to increase the concentration of non-odor causing bacteria, and Odor Neutralizing Enzymes to attack odor at its root cause. Our formulation is gentler on the skin compared to traditional aluminum-containing anti-perspirants. And this is important because menopausal skin may become more sensitive, and harsh chemicals found in some anti-perspirants can cause irritation or discomfort. When it comes to managing menopause odor, lifestyle changes along with choosing the right deodorant is essential. Acid-based deodorants offer several advantages over other types, including baking soda or traditional aluminum-based anti-perspirants. By regulating the skin’s pH, they help to control odor-causing bacteria, and provide a gentler way to effectively tackle menopausal body odor without irritating skin. When to Get Help With Body Odor These are some reasons to see your doctor: If you can’t find relief from excessive sweating and body odor or if your sweating is interfering with your life. If you notice a fishy odor in or around your vagina, you may be dealing with an infection. A fruity odor, which could be a sign of diabetes. A bleach smelling odor, which may indicate kidney or liver disease. Some medical conditions can be serious and it’s best to rule them out.

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Is There Such a Thing As Wine Face?

Every year, after the holidays, I look at my skin and wonder—am I suffering from wine face? As much as I love the holiday season, I’m always a bit happy to be done with the busyness and indulgence that accompany it. Shop All Apothekari Don’t get me wrong – I love chocolates and wine as much as the next person but when January rolls around, I start to crave fresh, crispy salads, juicy berries and regular yoga classes. In addition to the few extra pounds that often seem to creep up on you during the season of excess, you may notice that your skin isn’t looking as fresh and dewy as normal. May I introduce “wine face”? What is Wine Face? “Wine face” is a term coined by a London naturopath to describe the effects of alcohol consumption on the skin. Along with gluten face, dairy face, and sugar face, wine face outlines the negative impact of different foods on your appearance. Wine face typically happens to those who consume one or two glasses of wine most nights of the week, although it can be triggered by consuming any type of alcohol. What Causes Wine Face? Alcohol consumption impacts your body in many ways, including the appearance of your skin. When you drink alcohol, it’s metabolized in the liver, which produces a toxic substance called acetaldehyde. This substance is responsible for many of the negative effects associated with alcohol, including the dilation of the delicate capillaries of the cheeks and nose, drawing blood to the surface of the skin and leading to facial redness and puffiness. With frequent alcohol consumption, the face may attain a permanent ruddy appearance. Alcohol consumption is also dehydrating, which can make fine lines and wrinkles look worse. Lastly, alcohol is known to decrease the production of collagen, which is essential for healthy and youthful-looking skin. Collagen gives the skin its strength, elasticity, and firmness. As collagen production decreases, the skin begins to sag, and wrinkles may become more noticeable. What Does a Wine Face Look Like? The main symptoms of wine face include: Lines or redness between the eyes Saggy eyelids Enlarged pores Facial redness Deep laughter lines Dehydrated skin with feathery lines across the cheeks If you see these signs, it’s a good indication that your alcohol consumption is starting to have an impact on your appearance. Can Wine Face Be Reversed? The good news is that wine face is reversible. The first step is to take a short break from alcohol, ideally for three weeks or more, to allow your gut to rebalance. During this time, it’s essential to drink plenty of water to help hydrate your skin. Water is crucial for healthy skin and helps your body to circulate nutrients and get rid of harmful substances that can contribute to skin and other health problems. Once the three weeks are over, get into the habit of consuming alcohol in moderation. Sticking to an 80/20 rule can help you maintain a healthy balance. Abstain from alcohol for 80% of the time, but allow yourself the occasional glass in the remaining 20%. The Impact of Alcohol on Skin Health Alcohol is a known diuretic, which means it increases urine production and leads to dehydration. This dehydration can be detrimental to skin health, as it can cause the skin to look dull and lifeless. It can also exacerbate existing skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Reducing your alcohol consumption benefits ALL the organs in your body; not just your skin. Excessive alcohol consumption has many other negative health implications, including developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems. It also increases your risk of developing cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum. How to Get Rid of Wine Face? Aside from taking a break from alcohol, there are several other steps you can take to help get rid of wine face. Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water to help hydrate your skin. Water is essential for healthy skin and helps your body to circulate nutrients and get rid of harmful substances that can contribute to skin and other health problems. Eat a healthy diet filled with lots of fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals that can be generated by consuming alcohol. Invest in a good skincare routine. Prep skin with cleansers, protect with sunscreen, prevent damage with antioxidants, and perfect and renew with retinoids. Our Ageless Skin Set contains all the essentials to help keep skin looking healthy and glowing. How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of Wine Face? For most of us, after taking a complete break from alcohol for several weeks, you’ll likely notice a difference to your skin’s appearance. After this, it’s a good idea to avoid consuming it during the week and saving it for the weekends or special occasions. What About Red Wine Face? Red wine face isn’t different or special to “wine face” as the alcohol found in red wine is the same alcohol found in other types of alcoholic beverages. And, sadly, contrary to what the marketers want you to believe, red wine doesn’t have any special properties that help to benefit your health. Wine face is a real thing, and it’s not just a myth. If you’re a regular wine drinker and you notice that your skin isn’t looking as fresh and youthful as it once was, it might be time to take a closer look at your alcohol consumption habits. Remember, the key is moderation. By taking a break from alcohol, drinking plenty of water, eating a healthy diet, and investing in a good skincare routine, you can help get rid of wine face and keep your skin looking healthy and youthful for years to come.

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Don't Put Up With Vaginal Dryness! This is How to Treat it

Vulvar and vaginal dryness are a common, yet ‘silent’ problem because many women feel embarrassed to talk about it with their partners, friends and even doctors. It can have a really negative impact on quality of life, yet only 25% of women seek help to manage their symptoms. Shop Intimate Care Feminine Moisturizer What is a Natural Remedy for Dry Down There? We’re here to change that and that’s why we’re so excited to share news about More Than Lip Service. You moisturize the rest of your body so why not your vulva and vagina? Our moisturizer helps to treat the symptoms associated with vulvar & vaginal dryness, allowing you to embrace life again. Made with a combination of hyaluronic acid (which your body produces naturally) plus vitamin E and other beneficial ingredients, More Than Lip Service gives you fast, long-lasting & hormone-free relief from the burning, itching & pain associated with vaginal atrophy, vulvar and vaginal dryness. Unlike those other lubricants that just slip right out, ours not only immediately alleviates dryness symptoms but also lasts so long, you may not even need to use it every day. Why Am I Dry Down There All of a Sudden? Over half of women aged between 51 and 60 experience vulvar & vaginal dryness, leading to pain, irritation and burning. While it’s more common in older women, younger women aren’t immune. Around 17% of women aged 18-50 experience issues, even before menopause. The hormonal changes associated with aging—in general, a decline in estrogen levels—is the main cause, but feminine sprays and harsh soaps, swimming pool & hot tub chemicals, detergents, and some medications can also lead to vaginal dryness. It may also be problematic during sexual intercourse, resulting in pain along with intimacy issues. What Causes Vaginal Dryness? A normal, healthy vagina: Is kept supple and moist with natural lubrication produced by glands at the neck of the womb (the cervix). This moisture makes its way slowly down through the vagina, keeping it clean and removing dead cells. The moisture is slightly acidic, helping to keep the area, including the vulva and the labia healthy, preventing infections like thrush. Most women may notice a slight white vaginal discharge – this is perfectly normal. The Bartholin’s glands (two glands at the entrance of the vagina) produce extra moisture to aid sexual intercourse when a woman is aroused. However, a quarter of women aged 50-59 experience vaginal dryness problems during sex and 16% experience pain. In addition to the natural lubrication that makes its way down through the vagina, there’s also a thin layer of moisture that coats the walls of the vagina. This moisture helps sperm travel and survive in for sexual reproduction. It also helps to reduce friction during sexual intercourse. As a woman gets older, a decline in estrogen production can cause the vaginal walls to thin, resulting in fewer cells that secrete moisture. Apart from age, vulvar and/or vaginal dryness may be associated with: Breastfeeding Cigarette smoking Depression Excessive stress Immune system disorders, such as Sjögren syndrome Childbirth Rigorous exercise Some cancer treatments, such as radiation to the pelvis, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy Surgical removal of the ovaries Some medications, including douching, as well as some creams and lotions that are applied to the vaginal area. Can Dehydration Cause Dryness Down There? If you’re not drinking enough water, then your skin—anywhere on your body—is prone to dryness. Dehydration can take a on your vaginal health, leaving the skin feeling itchy and dry. It can also throw off the pH balance, possibly contributing to conditions including yeast infections. Make sure that you’re drinking enough water (most experts recommend somewhere between 6-10, 8 oz glasses a day. Tea, coffee, fruits and vegetables all count towards this and you may need more depending on your level of activity and personal needs. What are the Symptoms of Vaginal Dryness? How Long Does Vaginal Dryness Last? Vulvar & vaginal dryness cause discomfort in the vaginal and pelvic regions along including: Burning Loss of interest in sex Painful sexual intercourse Light bleeding following intercourse Soreness Urinary tract infections (UTIs) that don’t go away or that reoccur Vaginal itching or stinging Beyond painful intercourse, untreated vaginal dryness can cause sores or cracking in the vagina’s tissues. See your doctor if you experience the following: Vaginal dryness that lasts for more than a few weeks and and that isn’t fixable with over the counter solutions (see below) Vaginal dryness is affecting your daily life You experience unusual discharge or bleeding from your vagina You have bleeding after sex or in between your periods If severe vaginal bleeding occurs, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. How Do You Get Rid of Dryness Down There? Although it can throw havoc with your day to day activities, vulvar & vaginal dryness aren’t life threatening. Thankfully, treatments are available. 1. What is the best lube for menopause? Similar to natural lubrication, lubricants provide temporary relief from dryness and discomfort. Lubricants may be used at any time and aren’t just reserved for perimenopause or menopause. They should be applied to the area around the vulva (lips) and vagina just before sexual intercourse. 2. What is good for vaginal dryness? (Hint: Moisturizers!) Longer lasting than lubricants, moisturizers like More Than Lip Service are designed to be used two to three times a week. They may be used externally or used internally and their effect lasts for days. They’re a great option for women who can’t—or don’t want to—use hormonal options. 3. Do estrogen pills help with dryness? Estrogen pills are a hormonal option available by prescription to help manage vaginal dryness. Creams, gels, patches and rings are also available to give you a range of products to choose from. Supplementing with estrogen can help to manage a range of perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms that women may encounter, including not only, vaginal dryness, but also hot flashes and brain fog. If you feel that you’d benefit from going this route, check in with your physician who’ll be able to help you navigate the choices to find one that works for you. If your main concern though, is vaginal dryness, studies have shown that vaginal moisturizers made with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E (like More Than Lip Service) are comparable in efficacy to hormonal treatments and without the risk of side effects. (1,2,3) Check with your health care provider if you aren’t sure about your options. (1) Jokar A, Davari T, Asadi N, Ahmadi F, Foruhari S. Comparison of the Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Cream and Conjugated Estrogen Used in Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy of Menopause Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Int J Community Based Nurs Midwifery. 2016 Jan;4(1):69-78. PMID: 26793732; PMCID: PMC4709811. (2) Stute, Petra. Is vaginal hyaluronic acid as effective as vaginal estriol for vaginal dryness relief? Multicenter Study Arch Gynecol Obstet . 2013 Dec;288(6):1199-201. (3) Chen J, Geng L, Song X, Li H, Giordan N, Liao Q. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of hyaluronic acid vaginal gel to ease vaginal dryness: a multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label, parallel-group, clinical trial. J Sex Med. 2013 Jun;10(6):1575-84. doi: 10.1111/jsm.12125. Epub 2013 Apr 9. PMID: 23574713.

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11 Overrated Skincare Products (That You Probably Don't Need)

Just because a cute 20-something is pushing it on social media, it doesn’t mean you need it, or that it’s even good for your skin—here are 11 overrated skincare products that your skin (and your wallet) can do without. SHOP RADIANT SKIN SET Overrated Skincare Products. What Skincare Products Are Necessary? Hype isn’t something that we DON’T do at Apothekari – our line of no fluff, more active ‘stuff’ treatments will transform your skin and provide relief from your skin’s changing needs. Do We Really Need All These Skincare Products? Here are some on the ‘to ditch’ list. 1. At-Home Microneedling Kits Studies have shown microneedling to be beneficial in helping with the absorption of topical skincare treatments like vitamin C and retinoids—when done in a professional setting. At home kits have issues around hygiene and safety. AND, the needling device is likely to be very shallow—so shallow that it won’t be effective. 2. Activated Charcoal Treatments From cleansers, to soaps and shampoos (and underarm detoxes too), charcoal containing products are big sellers these days. While they claim to ‘detox’ and remove dirt and oil, they can only do this on the skin’s surface so the effect is unlikely to be significant. Overrated skincare product for sure – especially don’t buy into charcoal detoxes for your armpits. They are totally unnecessary when making the switch to a natural deodorant like ours. 3. Cellulite Cream They’re usually pricey. More importantly, they do not work. Cellulite creams work no better than a good moisturizer. And, research has shown that physical massage and exercise can help to improve the appearance of cellulite more than any cream can. Keep in mind that cellulite is part of the normal aging process and every woman gets it. It’s impossible to shift it with topical treatments. Does Some Skincare Make Your Skin Worse? Some skincare products and ingredients can actually be harmful to skin, especially if not used correctly. For example: 4. Essential Oils Some essential oils have some great properties—and they smell amazing (love them in my diffuser). But, applied full strength to the face, they can lead to dermatitis, skin irritation, rosacea or psoriasis. While it can be safe to use essential oils on the face, they must be diluted in a carrier oil first. What is unnecessary in skin care routine? Although lots of people use these products, there’s often no need. Here are more overrated skin care products that you can say bye-bye to. 5. Toners We’re not alone in our distaste for useless skincare products and toners fit the bill. Unless they are formulated with ingredients that have a specific function—to hydrate, or minimize acne—they don’t need to take up space on your counter. 6. Stretch Mark Treatments Much like cellulite creams, stretch mark products can’t penetrate deep enough to treat the scarring in the dermis layer of the skin. We’re ranking this up there for worst skincare products. Try a good moisturizer instead. 7. CBD Skin Care Is this not the hottest trend right now? While there’s some research to show that CBD helps with skin inflammation, much more is needed before we can determine whether it fits into the category of overrated skincare products, or ones that actually deliver as promised. These Skin Care Trends Need to Go Away Popular on TikTok and other social media channels, there are some trends that look like a lot of fun—and promise tons of unproven benefits. Now we’re not saying not to do these because for the most part, they’re harmless. But…don’t expect much benefit. Studies have shown that these just don’t work. 8. Face Rollers Is everyone using (or selling) a facial roller these days? They may feel soothing—especially when chilled—but there’s very little science to support the anti-aging claims associated with these overrated skincare products. Made of jade? Or rose quartz? Or amethyst? Doesn’t matter. While they’ll help to reduce swelling or puffiness for the short term, they’re not going to deliver any long term benefits. However, if you enjoy using them, there’s no harm. Just don’t expect the marketing miracles. 9. Face Yoga Face yoga, or even face exercises promises to help lift and firm your skin. Sounds tempting, right? Sadly, there’s very little evidence to suggest that it works. Here’s why. Our face is made up of skin, fat and muscle layered on top of the skull. Beneath the subcutaneous fat are fat pads, which are plump, fat-containing areas that fit together like a jigsaw puzzle to create the volume that gives our face shape. It’s these fat pads that play a role in the fullness of your face; the fuller your face, generally speaking, the younger you look. As we get older, the fat pads begin to thin and become less plump … and as they do this, they also sag. That sagging can leave the face looking hollow as we age. Facial exercises can’t increase the plumpness of the fat pads or make them sag less. They also don’t change the look or feel of the skin itself. No matter how many exercises you do, the muscles under the fat pads won’t help to make your face look fuller. And when it comes to wrinkles and fine lines, there’s no real impact on the support structures (collagen and elastin) in the skin that over time break down and lead to the signs of aging. The good news? Face exercises aren’t harmful, but they’re not a replacement for a consistent skin care routine, including cleansing, sun protection, retinoids, antioxidants and moisturizing. Procedures like fillers, Botox or surgery are far more effective than face exercises if you’re looking for more dramatic results. Check in with your dermatologist if it’s something you’re considering. Do them if they make you feel good, but just don’t expect your skin to look any different. 10. Bee Sting Facials Some studies have shown that bee stings can reduce inflammation. There is the sticky problem though, of bee sting allergies, which can be deadly in susceptible individuals. I think we can safely say that the risks outweigh the benefits for this DANGEROUS and overhyped skincare trend. 11. Snail Mucin A popular K-beauty ingredient, snail mucin comes from snails. It’s reported to have a high concentration of hyaluronic acid, which we know has many skin benefits. But, does it really need to be harvested from a snail when safe and effective options are already available, like the hyaluronic acid—and its relative, sodium hyaluronate—found in our Glow Getter Serum, Daily Infusion Moisturizer and More Than Lip Service Vulvar & Vaginal Moisturizer. What Skincare Products Are Really Necessary? I’ve called out 11 overrated skincare products that are likely going to suck up your time and not give you the results you’re looking for. If you can ignore those 11, which ones are essential to having healthy, glowing skin? Here’s a few things to consider: Know Your Skin Type The key to finding the right products is to identify your skin type – is it dry, oily, normal, combination? What are your concerns? Fine lines, wrinkles, dryness, acne, age spots? Understanding what your skin needs will help you to identify the ingredients and products that are the best fit. Be Consistent Like taking your medicines as instructed, a consistent skin care routine is key to getting results from your skincare products. You need to allow at least 4 to 6 weeks for topical treatments to notice a difference because it takes that long for your skin cells to turn over (renew). Along with regular use, don’t keep adding or eliminating products (unless you experience a reaction) because you’ll never get a grasp on what’s working for you. Be Gentle Too many stripping cleansers or exfoliating too often, can disrupt your skin’s protective barrier, leaving it prone to infection and irritation. Be mindful of the products you’re using. What Are the Only 3 Skincare Products You Need? If I had to choose just 3 skincare products, I know exactly which ones I’d choose: Sunscreen. And I’d use it Every SINGLE DAY. The sun’s UV rays are responsible for more than 80% of skin aging. Find a good broad spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 and apply it in the morning. Retinoid. Retinoids like retinaldehyde in our Advanced+ Renewal Serum are one of the best ways to boost the production of collagen and elastin, which form part of our skin’s supporting network. These two proteins decline as we age, leading to fine lines, wrinkles and skin sag so it’s the most effective way to fight back against the most visible signs of aging. There are many other retinoids to choose from so find one that works for your skin to reap its benefits. Antioxidant. Antioxidants like the vitamin C in our Glow Getter Serum help to protect skin against free radicals—unstable molecules that we encounter as a result of sun and pollution exposure—that can lead to skin damage. Of course, life isn’t that simple so most of us need to rely on a few additional products as well. I’d say that a good cleanser—one that helps to remove dirt and make-up without stripping skin is also key. And finally, a moisturizer is something that most women need, especially as they get older and skin becomes drier. Need help choosing a moisturizer? Check out this post: 5 Questions to Ask Before You Choose a Moisturizer. Got anymore overrated skincare products to share? Let us know your worst skincare picks!

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Do You Need a Face Toner?

The face toner has been around for a long, long time. Once, it was deemed an essential component of a good skin care routine. But is it necessary today? Shop All Apothekari What is Face Toner and How Do You Use It? Face toner is a liquid skincare product that can play lots of different roles in your skincare routine depending on the ingredients that they contain. They’re often promoted as a way to remove ‘impurities’ or residual dirt that may be left behind on your face after cleansing. But, if you’re cleansing properly, and removing make-up first. Or, if you’re double cleansing, this step of toning seems a bit redundant. What Does a Toner Do for Your Face? In addition to removing left behind dirt, toners claim to hydrate, prime or sooth skin. As well, they are promoted to help your moisturizer absorb fully. And then, there are toners filled with additional active ingredients—salicylic acid for example—that may be used as treatments for some skin conditions, like acne. Is Face Toner Necessary? Without coming across as wishy washy, the best answer is that it depends. Toners have traditionally been applied after cleansing for two reasons mainly: Getting rid of dirt that remains post washing, as mentioned above To pH balance the skin. However, most cleansers—and skincare products in general—are pH balanced today, making this step unnecessary. Older face toners often contained high concentrations of alcohol and had an astringent effect— drawing water out of your skin’s tissues—helping to minimize the appearance of your pore size and reducing sebum levels. But they were often very harsh for dry or sensitive skin types. Today, toners tend to be water-based products and made with a variety of ingredients that can help to hydrate, protect, soothe, brighten, remove excess oil or reduce breakouts. Ingredients may include: Glycerin to moisturize Hyaluronic acid to increase hydration Antioxidants to protect Bisabolol to calm Alpha and beta hydroxy acids to exfoliate and reduce blemishes Retinoids to boost collagen What Happens if You Don’t Use Toner? The short answer is, very little. If you’re following a consistent skin care regimen made up of products that work for your skin and that deliver results, then a toner is redundant as the other treatments will contain ingredients to make up for the absence of toner. When Should I Use Toner? As mentioned above, there’s no burning reason to apply toner. However, if it’s a product that you love; it isn’t duplicating ingredients in your serum, moisturizer, etc, or is a formulation designed to address a specific skin concern, then go at it! Do Dermatologists Recommend Toner? Most skin care professionals, including dermatologists agree that you can skip the toner. Unless, of course, it contains ingredients that specifically proven to help improve a skin condition. Acids for managing acne and blemishes, and hydrating ingredients for soothing dry skin are the most common beneficial uses for toners. Regardless of which toner you choose to use, avoid those that are highly alcohol-based as they are too drying, even if you have an oily complexion. Can I Skip Toner and Use Moisturizer? A resounding yes. As we’ve discussed in this post, toner is an optional skincare product that for the most part, has been replaced by others like serums and even your daily moisturizer. Moisturizers today often contain a combination of effective ingredients including: Humectants, which attract moisture to your skin Emollients (generally oils), which soften and smooth skin Occlusives, which help to protect your skin’s natural barrier system by preventing moisture loss and keeping it safe from harmful external irritants. If you’re using a ‘moisturizing’ toner, a good moisturizing cream and lotion can generally replace it. Can I Skip Toner and Use Serum? Another yes. Serums are widely available and come in a range of formulations with a variety of ingredients to help address most skin care concerns. The great thing about serums is that they tend to be lightweight, making them suitable for all skin types and ideal for layering under (or over) other treatments. Plus, they often contain more than just one ingredient, making them a more efficient—and cost effective—way to deliver skin benefits. So the next time, you ask yourself “Do I need a face toner?” consider that while they aren’t essential in your skin care routine, that they can make for a good supporting act. If you’re into that kind of thing.

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Everything You Wanted to Know About Natural Deodorant. And How to Choose the Right One

Curious about making the switch to natural deodorant? Or wondering if using one is right for you? You’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’re answering alllll the questions you may have about natural deodorant and finding one that’s right for you. Landing upon a deodorant that actually works–trust us, we’ve been through the process of trial and error–can seem as hard as finding the proverbial needle in the haystack. Ones that manage to control odor, effectively, are few and far between. Not to toot our own horn, but Apothekari’s natural deodorants do. Q: Does Natural Deodorant Work? If you’ve already been on a hunt to find the perfect deodorant, then we feel your pain. Hard as rock crystals that tug at your skin, sticky globs that drip down your arms and oil based ointments that stain your shirts. Not only are they messy, inconvenient and mean to your clothes, many of them just don’t work. We were about to give up too, until we decided that if the perfect deodorant didn’t exist, that we’d create our own. One that really works! Apothekari’s new spray deodorants rely on a triple combination of odor destroying ingredients that stop the stench: Natural odor eating enzymes that break down the stinky stuff in sweat so that you won’t smell Probiotics to help increase the concentration of good bacteria on your skin, which attacks the bad bacteria that leads to odor Glycolic acid, which keeps skin at a friendly pH and inhibits the production of the smell inducing bad bacteria. Plus we’ve included soothing allantoin and caffeine to ensure that your pits not only smell fresh, but feel soft and smooth too. Is It Safe to Use Natural Deodorant? Natural deodorants differ from antiperspirants because they are free from aluminum, the ingredient that stops sweat–and the ensuing odor–from developing. Instead, they rely on ingredients that can do one of several things: Absorb wetness (arrowroot powder, cornstarch) Increase or decrease skin pH to make it inhospitable to odor causing bacteria (baking soda, glycolic acid) Antibacterial properties (tea tree and other essential oils) Act as probiotics (ethylhexylglycerin). Most of the ingredients are safe (except for baking soda, whose high pH can lead to skin irritation and rashes and which we’d never recommend in deodorant) and well tolerated by most individuals who use them. When/How Often Should I Apply the Deodorant? Apply deodorant after showering or bathing, to your pits, feet or anywhere else on your body that needs some freshening up. Since we’re all different, use how much you sweat as a gauge. You may want to reapply before physical exercise or when heading out for the evening. It’s safe to use our deodorants more than once in a day. Do You Sweat More With Natural Deodorant? Yes, you will sweat more with natural deodorant compared to an antiperspirant. Antiperspirants minimize sweating, while deodorants works to control odor and have no impact on the amount of sweat. Is It a Gimmick? Well formulated deodorants actually deliver on their promise of controlling odor. Keep in mind that a deodorant isn’t an antiperspirant, so they won’t stop the sweat, but if they are made with the right ingredients, then they will help to keep you smelling fresh. Q: Antiperspirant vs Natural Deodorant Antiperspirants work by blocking sweat glands, reducing the amount of sweat that reaches the skin’s surface. The bacteria that live on your skin don’t have any sweat to break down so the odor causing by-products are not produced. Natural deodorant doesn’t reduce sweat, but prevents odor with ingredients that reduce the odor causing bacteria and/or by masking it with scent. While many natural deodorants rely on baking soda to help reduce bacteria by increasing the skin’s pH to 8-9; we use glycolic acid, instead, which helps skin to stay within it’s ideal pH, and minimizes the risk for irritation. What is the Most Effective All Natural Deodorant? The most effective deodorant is one that’s right for you. Although there are some ingredients known to help control odor (we listed a few above), not every deodorant works for every person. It’s a matter of body chemistry, individuality and the formulation itself. You may need to try a few deodorants before you find one that’s right for you. But we can tell you that the majority of people who use our deodorants, have nothing but positive things to say about it! But you don’t have to trust us; check out the testimonials on our pages. Q: What is the Healthiest Natural Deodorant? There isn’t just one deodorant that can claim to be the healthiest, but there are certain things to look for when choosing a healthy deodorant. pH Balance. pH is a scale that ranges from 0 to 14 and measures the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. High pH (14) means alkaline and low pH (0) is acidic. pH 7 is considered neutral. Your skin is naturally acidic, sitting somewhere between 4.5-6.5 and covered by a fine layer called the ‘acid mantle’. This layer helps to keep skin healthy, locking moisture in, and offering protection against harmful substances, including bacteria. It’s important to maintain this level to enable the ‘acid mantle’, the fine layer that sits on top of our skin, to function properly, retaining moisture and keeping germs out as well. If the pH is disturbed often or for a long period of time, your skin can become very unhappy. It’s why we avoid baking soda (or magnesium hydroxide) in our formulations. These high pH substances–greater than pH 8 or 9, may work initially, but over time, can lead to itching and irritation including rashes and even chemical burns. Apothekari’s natural deodorants are free from baking soda; the slightly acidic pH means happy skin. Aluminum Free. Aluminum is the key ingredient in antiperspirants and works by plugging sweat glands to prevent sweat, and the ensuing odor. And while you may be concerned about the link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s Disease or breast cancer, studies have disputed that they’re connected when it comes to your health. But it’s not without its downsides. Aluminum is the ingredient that stains clothes yellow. And, it can irritate skin in sensitive individuals so, for these reasons, you may want to avoid it. CAVEAT: Many deodorants claim to be aluminum free yet may contain kaolin clay (chemical formula Al2Si2O5(OH)4, or aluminum and silica). If you’re trying to avoid aluminum, don’t make the mistake of choosing one with kaolin clay. Our deodorants don’t contain any aluminum-containing ingredients. Baking Soda Free. Although it works to control odor, baking soda is a high pH ingredient (see point 1 above) that kills the good bacteria on your skin that keeps it healthy. This disrupts your skin’s natural ecosystem, and over time, can lead to red, itchy and irritated skin. Probiotics. Probiotics work to increase the amount of ‘good bacteria’ that live on your skin. These good bacteria destroy the ‘bad bacteria’ that lead to odor so you’ll definitely want to use a formulation that contains probiotics. Is Baking Soda Harmful in Deodorant? We’ve discussed our concern with baking soda in deodorant above. It may be considered a natural ingredient, but stripping your skin’s natural pH leads to skin irritation. If you’ve tried natural deodorants before and experienced itchy, red or irritated skin, then baking soda is most likely to blame. Our natural deodorants are B.S. free in more than one way! There’s no baking soda in our formulations. Instead, we rely on a combination of odor neutralizing enzymes, probtiotics and glycolic acid to help keep your underarms–and other body parts–smelling fresh and feeling clean all day. Q: What Causes Body Odor? Sweat itself is odorless but when it’s released from either your eccrine glands (over most of your body) or apocrine glands (hairy areas) it mixes with the bacteria that live on your skin. These bacteria break down certain proteins in your sweat into acids, which lead to body odor. Apocrine sweat, which comes from hairy areas, is higher in protein. And when it’s broken down, it leads to smellier acids. It’s why body odor tends to occur more frequently in your pits and groin. Why Do I Smell Like BO With Natural Deodorant? See the point above. It means that your deodorant just isn’t cutting it. We’ve found that ingredients like coconut oil or a blend of essential oils, which start off smelling pretty, are the worst offenders. Does Natural Deodorant Make Your Armpits Stink? If the formulation you’re using is not effective, then yes you will smell! It won’t be able to effectively fight against odor, leaving you smelling like you’re trying to cover something up. Or worse yet, like a pair of damp, smelly gym socks. Get thee to a new formulation. Have you tried ours? Q: What Deodorants Have No Parabens? Ours have no parabens! Parabens are a class of preservatives that are used in both food and cosmetics to help keep them safe from developing bacteria, mold or fungi, which can be harmful to your health. However, many people are concerned with their safety profile and link to hormone disruption, which harm fertility and reproductive organs, affects birth outcomes, and increases the risk of cancer. While there is little evidence to suggest that parabens actually do any of this, many people wish to avoid parabens in their personal care products. For this reason, Apothekari’s natural deodorants are made without parabens. However, you can be assured that they are preserved properly, to ensure your safety. Q: Can You Just Switch to Natural Deodorant? Yes you can! While antiperspirant plugs the sweat glands to prevent sweat from developing, it is perfectly safe to stop using antiperspirant one day and then start using a natural deodorant the next. Your pits and other body parts will be very happy if you choose the right formulation. However, if you opt for one that contains high pH baking soda or magnesium hydroxide, then you may experience a reaction, including itching or a rash. Despite what you’ve been told, your body is NOT releasing toxins, it is simply reacting to an ingredient (baking soda) that is not good for your skin. If this happens, stop using the product and wait for the reaction to clear up. In some cases, it may not and if it lingers for longer than a 2-3 days, please check in with your doctor. What Happens When You Start Using Natural Deodorant? If you’re changing over from antiperspirant to natural deodorant, the main difference you’ll notice is an increase in sweating. Antiperspirants form plugs to block sweat glands and the odor that follows. Once you stop using an antiperspirant, it can take about a week for these plugs to disappear. The result will be an increase in sweating, but as long as you’re using an effective deodorant formulation, you shouldn’t notice a smell. Natural Deodorant for Men Men and women sweat a bit differently. Men tend to sweat more than women, and their sweat also smells a bit different. However, there’s no reason that they can’t use the same type of natural deodorant as it will work the same way, regardless of your gender. Is It Suitable for Kids/Teenagers? Yes, our deodorant has been formulated for anyone and everyone to use. Is Natural Deodorant Suitable to Use in Pregnancy? Natural deodorants are fine to use during pregnancy. If you have any concerns we advise checking with your healthcare practitioner. FAQ About Apothekari Natural Deodorant If you’re new to our natural deodorant, here are some answers to frequently asked questions and how to use it for optimal efficacy. How Do I Use the Deodorant? Mist 2-3 sprays to underarms, feet, under boobs or groin/underpants. Our deodorants are designed to control body odor and not cover up your natural odor. External use only. How Long Will One Bottle Last? Everyone is different, so it varies depending on how frequently you use it and how much you apply at one time. If you’re using to control odor under your arms only, we find that one bottle lasts between 2-3 months for most people. Prep Your Clothes First! Lingering odors from waxes and oils found in anti-perspirants, natural deodorants, and fabric softeners may be left behind in clothing–causing it to smell even after washing. If this is the case, you may need to treat the clothing first with an enzymatic detergent before washing. Try doing this before tossing in the hamper. Please don’t blame our deodorant if your clothing smells from old odors! Do I Need To Detox Before I Use Your Natural Deodorant? Unlike many other deodorants, you do not need a pit detox with Apothekari. Our natural deodorant is baking-soda free, so you don’t need to worry about developing a rash or burn under your arms, which often happens with baking soda. Baking soda-based deodorants have a high pH (8-9), while your skin is happy at a pH around 5. Our approach respects your skin’s pH and chemistry–ensuring that you won’t experience the irritation often seen with other natural deodorants.

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9 Vitamin C Myths You Must Stop Believing

Although it’s a superstar skin care ingredient, there are many vitamin C myths circulating around when it comes to skin care. We’ve written about its benefits before, and in this post, we’re debunking the 9 most common vitamin C myths and setting the record straight. Shop Bespoke Vitamin C 15% Shop Bespoke Vitamin C 10% 1. All vitamin C is the same While the front of your bottle may read as just simply containing vitamin C, in the ingredient list, it can show up as L-ascorbic Acid (pure vitamin C) or other forms including ascorbyl glucoside, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate, etc. While they are all called vitamin C, they differ in the results they deliver. Plus, each type may be tolerated differently when it comes to your skin. So what type of vitamin C is best? We’re big fans of L-ascorbic acid, because it’s backed by the most amount of research when it comes to its benefits for skin–boosting collagen production; inhibiting melanin synthesis, which contributes to age spots; exfoliating for more glowing skin, etc. It’s what’s in our Glow Getter 15% and 10% Serums. However, if your skin is really sensitive, you may not be able to tolerate L-ascorbic acid, in which case you can look for a formulation made with a different vitamin C derivative. 2. Does vitamin C make your skin sensitive? No, it doesn’t. Vitamin C is acidic, which is why this myth may have gained traction. Vitamin C hasn’t been shown to increase sensitivity to the sun. In fact, studies show that this powerful antioxidant ingredient helps protect against free radical damage from the sun, boosting the protection you get from sunscreen. So, you can apply your vitamin C product in the a.m. or p.m. (or both), depending on what benefits you’re seeking and how it feels in your routine. Daytime application delivers antioxidative benefits, while nighttime application helps more with firming and rejuvenation–though you will also get some of these benefits with daytime application as well. 3. Vitamin C can replace your sunscreen While it’s true that vitamin C helps to protect against the sun’s ultraviolet rays, it is not—and should not be used as—a sunscreen. Vitamin C is one of the strongest defenders against free radicals– unstable molecules that damage skin–and which are caused by exposure to sunlight, pollution and smoke. Think of sunscreen as your first line of defense, helping to block damaging rays, with vitamin C as its assistant, helping to protect against free radicals that make it through the sunscreen’s protection. 4. You can become resistant to it This myth tends to circulate about many skin care ingredients; not just vitamin C. First, it’s important to understand that resistance happens when the number of receptors decrease. Since vitamin C is not active at any specific receptor in the skin, resistance can’t occur. Think of it another way. Vitamin C is not only good for your skin, it’s good for your overall health. If you’re eating nourishing foods every day, chances are that they are high in vitamin C and your body definitely isn’t becoming resistant to the benefits of the strawberries or kale salad that you’re eating on the daily. If a vitamin C formula is working for you, there’s no need to worry that it’s going to stop working. 5. Higher concentrations are always better When it comes to vitamin c myths, this may be the most common one! However, with skin care products, more isn’t necessarily better, because your skin can only absorb so much. Plus, because vitamin C is acidic, higher concentrations can end up being quite irritating. In fact, studies have shown that concentrations of L-ascorbic acid greater than 20% can actually be damaging to skin. As long as you are using a vitamin C treatment from a reputable company, you can feel confident that they’re following guidelines for skin care ingredients that have been established in clinical studies. Whether it’s 0.5%, 1% or 10% doesn’t matter–what matters is that the amount used has been researched to deliver results, without harming skin. 6. Vitamin C can’t be used by sensitive skin Vitamin C can be suitable for all skin types. Is vitamin C ok for sensitive skin? The trick is to find the right type of vitamin C for you. For example, while L-ascorbic acid is the most widely researched–and potent–form of vitamin C, it can also be irritating to sensitive skin. If that’s the case, you can opt for a lower concentration or use it less frequently. If that doesn’t work, then try a form that isn’t so acidic. There are many to choose from, including tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and ascorbyl glucoside. 7. Vitamin C can’t be combined with other acids, retinol, or niacinamide When it comes to vitamin C and niacinamide, there’s an outdated study that shows the two can potentially react to form nicotinic acid, which can cause skin irritation. However, this potential exists only when pure ascorbic acid and niacinamide are combined together at very high temperatures. Thankfully, it’s not something we need to worry about when it comes to skin care. In fact, pairing these two ingredients can be a winning combination, especially for tackling hyperpigmentation because the two work in different ways to combat discoloration: vitamin C inhibits the production of the pigment responsible for age spots, while niacinamide helps prevent the transfer of the overproduced pigmentation within cells. What about combined with acids or retinol? Vitamin C can be used with retinol, but there is a risk of skin irritation when they are used together. If you want to include both in your skin care routine, we recommend spreading out your actives between your morning and night routine or even between days or weeks. ie vitamin C in the morning and retinoid at night. Can you use vitamin C and AHA (or other acids) together? As with retinoids, your skin can become irritated with these two ingredients are combined. Space them out (morning/night) or alternate the days that you use one or the other. 8. Vitamin C can discolor your skin Vitamin C actually does the opposite! It inhibits the production of tyrosinase, an enzyme that is involved in the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its coloring—and which is associated with age spots and hyperpigmentation. The end result is brighter and more evenly toned skin; not discolored skin. 9. DIY vitamin C is a good idea While it’s possible to mix up your own vitamin c serum at home, there are a couple of things to be mindful of: Foods high in vitamin C, like lemon and other citrus juices can lead to phytophotodermatitis, a painful reaction, that can cause skin to blister and break out in drak patches. Don’t do this at home, no matter how many internet searches tell you it’s safe and effective. If you mix your own vitamin C serum, be sure to mix it fresh every day. Vitamin C oxidizes very quickly resulting in a product that may not only be ineffective, but also harmful. Plus, water-based products need preservatives to ensure they don’t become contaminated with baceteria, mold or fungus. Even if refrigerated, they won’t stay fresh for long. We like to think that this is one thing best left to the experts. Did we cover all the vitamin C myths you may have questions about? Let us know in the comments so we can get to more myth busting for you.

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How To Fix Menopause Dryness With These Proven Solutions

The bad news—menopause dryness is an inevitable change for women as they age. The main reason for this is due to a drop in hormone levels, primarily estrogen, which leads to some noticeable changes to your skin and hair. The good news? Menopause dryness in all your body’s places is manageable and we’ve got you covered. Read on for all the ways to help turn your skin around. More Than Lip Service is a vaginal and vulvar moisturizer that alleviates the symptoms of dryness down there that occurs in more than 50% of women. Shop Intimate Care Feminine Moisturizer Does Menopause Dryness Go Away? Sadly, the hormonal changes that occur at menopause are permanent. During the lead-up to menopause—perimenopause—and at menopause, your body makes less estrogen, the hormone responsible for maintaining the elasticity, thickness, and suppleness of your skin. And while you may notice drier skin and hair, less obvious places on your whole body, including your neck, back, and chest, to elbows, legs, genitals — even nails, may be affected too. The inside of your mouth, nose, and eyes get drier as you age, as well. You might not think of them as skin, but just like the tissues inside your genitals–they’re called “mucosa,”–hormonal changes impact these as well, leaving you with itchy eye pain, cotton mouth, and that awful sandy feeling in your vagina. Thankfully there are many ways to help you, and your skin, feel better again. What Helps with Dry Skin During Menopause We’ve written about treating dry skin before and many of the tips outlined in these posts and our free guide, can help: Here’s How to Treat Dry Skin as You Get Older Make This One Change to Relieve Dry Skin Make This One Change to Relieve Dry Skin 5 Tips to Help You Care for Your Menopause Skin And you can also download our free guide packed with 7 Powerful—and easy—Tips to Help Banish Dry Skin. Why Am I Dry Down There All of a Sudden? Beyond your skin, hair and nails, you may notice menopause dryness in some unexpected places. Like down there. Estrogen’s impact on your skin also extends to the mucosal tissue found in your vulva and vagina. Low levels of the hormone can lead to thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls. Vaginal tissues become more easily irritated. This condition is called vaginal atrophy and can result in: Itching or stinging Burning and pain during sex or urination Light bleeding following intercourse An increased risk for developing urinary tract problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and frequent urination. There are other causes of vaginal dryness as well, including breastfeeding, some medications, and certain medical conditions. Read more about this here: Don’t Put Up With Vaginal Dryness | How to Treat it How do I Treat Vaginal Dryness? Without treatment, vaginal dryness usually worsens over time. And since treatments are available, it’s important to try them to help relieve your symptoms and discomfort. There are 3 main ways to address vaginal dryness: Lubricants Vaginal/Vulvar Moisturizers Hormone Treatments What works for you depends on a number of factors, including personal choice along with trying different products. Many women may start off by using a lubricant but then move to a moisturizer like More Than Lip Service for longer term relief. Hormonal treatments are an option for some women and a discussion with your trusted medical provider is always a good place to start. Can I Use Lube to Moisturize Menopause Dryness? Lubricants are designed to deliver added moisture to your vagina just before sex or pleasuring, but their results are only temporary. Moisturizers on the other hand, deliver longer lasting benefits, keeping your vagina and/or vulva moist all day. Although they work differently and provide different results, you can use lubricants along with moisturizers if that’s what works for you. Vaginal moisturizers like More Than Lip Service are one of the best ways to reduce vaginal and vulvar dryness for the delicate tissue in this part of your body. You can use it daily to begin with, then every few days to help keep the skin and tissues moist and to relieve vaginal dryness symptoms. The moisturizer can also be applied to the vulva to relieve dryness there. Apply before bed to help it maintain contact with tissues. Don’t use moisturizers not meant specifically for this part of your body. What is the Best Vaginal Moisturizer? More Than Lip Service Vulvar and Vaginal Moisturizer offers fast, hormone-relief for when you experience dryness down there. While there are many options to choose from, research has shown that a formulation made with hyaluronic acid (as found in our More Than Lip Service Vaginal Moisturizer), helps to relieve the symptoms of vaginal atrophy, reducing dryness and itching and improving urinary incontinence, comparable to treatment with estrogen therapy. The bonus? It comes without the potential for side effects using hormonal drugs. Int J Community Based Nurs Midwifery. 2016 Jan; 4(1): 69–78. Comparison of the Hyaluronic Acid Vaginal Cream and Conjugated Estrogen Used in Treatment of Vaginal Atrophy of Menopause Women: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Azam Jokar, MS,1 Tayebe Davari, MS,2 Nasrin Asadi, MD,3 Fateme Ahmadi, MD,4 and Sedighe Foruhari, MS1 Vaginal moisturizers are also available in creams, suppositories and natural oils. The key is to find one that works for you. Menopause Dryness Natural Remedies Do a search on the internet and you’ll probably find several safe and effective ways to help alleviate menopause dryness. Use caution with where you’re finding the information as not everyone who gives advice is actually qualified to give this advice. Please always consult your doctor before trying out potentially harmful treatments. That said, there are number of things you can do to help manage dryness naturally: Diet. A diet high in essential fatty acids, found in foods like fish and nuts may help to improve vaginal elasticity and tissue strength. As well, soy contains plant estrogens, which may help to reduce vaginal dryness. Last, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Limit caffeine and alcohol, which are dehydrating. Exercise. May help to improve blood flow and balance hormone levels. Caution with Personal Care Products. Douches, scented soaps and harsh cleansers may irritate the area and increase dryness. Have More Sex. Studies have shown that sexual intercourse helps to increase blood flow to your vagina, helping to keep tissues health. Remember to use a lubricant to help eliminate dryness and make sex more pleasurable.

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Do You Really Need Eye Cream? Or Is It a Scam?

Do you really need an eye cream? We think so, which is why we’re so excited to announce the arrival of Active Eyes, our specialized retinol peptide eye serum. More than just another moisturizer, Active Eyes is a powerful (yet gentle) age-beautifying serum that reduces the look of lines around the eye area. It also nourishes for firmer, smoother, brighter and hydrated skin, and is suitable for all skin types. Shop Active Eyes But, what if your beauty counter is already overflowing with serums, moisturizer, cleansers and toners? Is it worth your time, effort and money—not to mention the real estate on your bathroom counter— to add an eye treatment to your skin care routine? The answer may surprise you. What Is the Purpose of Eye Cream? An eye cream is a treatment that’s been specifically formulated to target skin concerns under the eye, on the eyelid and the skin around the eye. Some of the ingredients may be like those you’ll find in other creams or serums designed to be used on the face, but they may be present in a lower concentration to ensure that it’s safe for the delicate skin around the eyes. Skin isn’t just skin, and different parts of your body are covered with different types of skin. Eyelid skin is thinner and more fragile than the skin on the rest of your body and because of this, it shows signs of aging sooner than other areas of your face. It also doesn’t have any oil glands so needs more moisture to prevent dryness. Gentle care is non-negotiable. Active Eyes Serum What Ingredient Is Best for Under Eye? Choosing the right ingredients depends on your skin concerns. And whether it’s dark circles, fine lines, crepiness or undereye puffiness, if you’re starting to notice changes to your undereye area, then you should consider using a dedicated treatment. 1. How Can I Remove Dark Circles Under My Eyes? Lack of sleep, but also allergies or the natural aging process may be the reason for dark circles, which also tend to be more common amongst people of color. They may look purple or blue to dark brown or black in color, and while they’re rarely cause for concern, you may want to reduce their appearance for cosmetic reasons. Getting adequate sleep or changing your diet can improve dark circles. But, if they’re a result of aging, due to a loss of thinning skin, reduced fatty tissue, hyperpigmentation, or sun damage, you’ll need a treatment with ingredients that help to brighten the area. Niacinamide, antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and specialized brightening agents, like white bark extract (found in Active Eyes) are just a few examples of ingredients that can help. 2. How Do I Get Rid of the Wrinkles Under My Eyes? The best ingredient to help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines is a retinoid. Active Eyes contains a stable, encapsulated form of retinol, at a concentration suitable for the delicate eye area. It helps to boost the production of collagen and increases the skin’s natural renewal process, helping to smooth the appearance of wrinkles, and improve firmness as well. The formulation is supported with peptides, that further help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and deliver smoother skin. 3. How Do You Get Rid of Eye Bags? Eye bags are a result of the natural aging process, when the tissues and muscles around your eyes, weaken, leading to puffiness. A build-up of fluid can make this look worse. There aren’t many ingredients that can help to eliminate under eye bags long-term, but you can try the following for temporary results: Cold compresses Reduce fluid consumption or salt Sleep with your head slightly raised to prevent fluid accumulation Eliminate allergens that can contribute to eye bags What About Caffeine? Caffeine helps to shrink the size of blood vessels and can help to reduce the appearance of eye bags. But, the effect is temporary. So before forking over $$$ on a product, considering applying cool, wet teabags instead. They work just as well! Shop Eyes Are Eye Creams Harmful? As long as they’re formulated well, eye skin care products are not harmful. But, as with starting any new skincare product, exercise care. Retinoids and exfoliating acids may appear in concentrations that are too harsh for the eye area. Moisturizers may be too heavy, possibly leading to clogged pores and milia—tiny, milky-white spots, which appear just beneath the surface of your skin. Although harmless, the appearance of milia may bother you. If in doubt, a patch test is always a good idea. Apply a small amount to an area daily for three to five days and monitor for any unwanted reactions. What Can I Use to Moisturize Around Eyes? You can absolutely use your face moisturizer to treat the skin around your eyes. If it doesn’t irritate your eyes and provides a sufficient amount of moisture, you’re good. Take care to avoid very heavy products, which can lead to blocked pores. Our Daily Infusion Moisturizer is a fantastic option if you need further hydration around the eyes. However, if you’re using a dedicated eye treatment, you may not need a moisturizer. Active Eyes contains glycerin, a highly hydrating humectant, which helps to draw moisture into the skin. What Is the Correct Way to Apply Eye Cream? Wash your hands. Freshly washed hands minimizes the chance of introducing germs around your eyes. Use the right amount. In general, a pump or half a pump of eye cream or serum per eye should be enough, because they tend to be super concentrated and also because you are treating a very small area. We prefer pump application to keep your product safe from contamination. Squirt or dab the appropriate amount of serum onto the back of your hand. Use your ring finger. Dip a finger into the serum and use it to make a semi-circle of small dots, along the bone under your eye. Gently tap in. Dot cream between the edge of your eye and your temple (on the side of your eye, where fine lines and wrinkles often appear first). Gently tap in. Dot cream/serum in a semi-circle under your brow line. Gently tap in. If it’s ok to apply to your eyelids, do that and then gently tap in. (Test first if you’re not sure it’s suitable for this area). Use as directed. Most eye creams are designed to be used both morning and night and will be most effective when used consistently. If you prefer to apply your eye serum just once a day, do it at night, which is a good time for your skin to repair and regenerate. Don’t Forget | Additional Eye Cream Tips Sunscreen is safe and essential to ensure protection against sun damage, even around the eye area. It’s important to use it every day. Sunscreen can sting and burn eyes so you may have to try several formulations before landing on one that works for you. Mineral based sunscreens (with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), powder formulations or sticks may be good options. Last, cleanse. But do it gently!

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How To Look After Summer Skin | 7 of the Best Tips

We’re sharing 7 of the best tips to help you keep your summer skin looking radiant and beautiful this season and beyond. If you love the summertime as much I do, this is a must read! Shop All Apothekari How Can I Care For My Skin in the Summer? 1. First, Put on Your Sunscreen Remember when you were 10 and your mom sent you outside to play with your friends during summer break? ALL DAY LONG (you could only come in to pee and if you were lucky, maybe she’d give you a popsicle?). And sunscreen wasn’t a thing? Yeah, me too. I didn’t suffer too badly, because I don’t really burn, but I do remember some very pink faces in the neighborhood. More than the pain though—and we probably didn’t know it back then—that sunburn caused significant skin damage, increasing the chances of dark spots, roughness and dry, wrinkled skin. If you suffered a burn, it also increased your risk for skin cancers such as melanoma. This is why it’s so important to protect your skin against sun damage. The first step in protecting summer skin is to guard it from harm that can be caused by exposure to ultraviolet rays: Find and use a broad spectrum (minimum SPF 30) sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Don’t forget to apply to your ears, lips and tops of feet – most of us miss these areas. Seek out shady places whenever you’re out and about, especially during the sun’s peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm. Cover up with long sleeves and hats when you can. The sun can also burn your eyes, harming the retina, lens or cornea so make sure to protect your peepers with sunglasses and hats. 2. Antioxidants Rescue Summer Skin! While sunscreen is essential during hot weather, you may not know that you can amp up its protection. Meet sunscreen’s partner in crime, antioxidants. Sunscreens help to reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging, but you get even better protection if you combine sunscreen with an antioxidant. Even if you wear sunscreen every day, you’re not going to get 100% protection from the sun’s rays. An SPF 50+ sunscreen equals about 98% protection from UVB rays. Plus, most of us don’t apply nearly enough sunscreen (or as often enough) as we should to get the protection stated on the label. Just the smallest amount of residual UV exposure can trigger the development of free radicals, unstable molecules that can accelerate skin aging. Like unprotected sun exposure, free radicals can lead to wrinkles, dark spots, loss of firmness, and other issues. You may not be able to see or feel free radical damage, but it’s happening, just at a deeper level and the results will show up over time. Antioxidants help make up for what sunscreen can’t do – they protect against the free radical damage that exposure to sunlight causes. So even if you haven’t applied enough sunscreen—or forget to reapply—antioxidants neutralize the free-radical damage that’s caused by sun exposure. They also help defend skin from other sources of free radicals, such as pollution, smoke, high-energy visible (HEV) light and blue light from your cell phone. There isn’t a single BEST antioxidant but there are lots of amazing ones. Vitamins C and E are two of the most widely studied, but there are many others that also offer benefits, including ferulic acid, green tea, resveratrol and coenzyme Q10. When it comes to antioxidants, the more the merrier. A highly effective combination is available in our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum. Apply it every morning underneath your sunscreen. It not only protects, but will also help to deliver an irresistible glow. Ready for healthy, glowing skin in your 40s and beyond? Click here to download our FREE guide containing 5 tips to help you feel good and look your best as you ride the waves of your body’s changes. Treat the skin on all your body’s places with safe, effective products plus advice that will allow you to age with confidence, comfort and grace. 3. Correction 101 Sun damage can occur even with the consistent use of a sunscreen and an antioxidant. This is why you need to incorporate a retinoid into your routine. Derived from vitamin A, retinoids help to fight against skin damage associated with the sun. They’ve been shown to help boost the production of collagen and elastin for firmer, more supple skin; reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; brighten skin tone, reduce the appearance of dark spots and leave skin feeling smoother overall. Our A is for Anti-Aging Serum contains gentle yet highly effective retinaldehyde, making it suitable for almost all skin types. The formulation also reduces redness and increases skin’s moisture content. It’s no wonder we’ve dubbed A is for Anti-Aging, ‘a miracle for skin’—if one existed. 4. Summer Skin Needs Lighter Moisture Depending on where you live and your skin type, you may need to swap out your moisturizer. If it’s especially humid and your skin isn’t feeling dry, you may find that you don’t need a moisturizer—your morning serum and sunscreen may be all that you need. If you’ve been using face oils, you may want to give them a rest until cooler, drier weather arrives. Our Daily Infusion Moisturizer plumps, protects and refreshes skin without any hint of oiliness. It’s THE perfect year round moisturizer and ideal for summer skin. 5. Drink Up! Water of course! Drinking more water can’t fix dry skin but it does help it to function well by delivering nutrients to it. Make your daily hydration that much more special with ‘spa water’—cut up some fruit, add in some herbs and some ice. The flavors infuse the water, giving it a wonderful lift. 6. How Can I Get Glowing Skin in Summer? (Hint: Exfoliate!) Dead, dry skin cells that sit on the surface can leave your skin looking dull and lifeless. If you’re using our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum, you may be able to skip a facial exfoliant because the low pH L-ascorbic acid exfoliates. However, if you’re after additional exfoliation, add in a treatment that contains an alpha hydroxy acid like glycolic acid, lactic acid or malic acid. Use it once or twice a week at night, making sure to skip your retinoid treatment on those nights—the combination may be too much for most skin types. And, don’t forget your body—see tip 7 for how to take care of the rest of your skin. 7. Don’t Forget ALL Your Body’s Places We obsess over our faces but often neglect the skin on the rest of our body. Pay attention especially to these areas: Feet. Which can get rough from going barefeet or wearing sandals. Exfoliate with a scrub or pumice and slather on a moisturizing treatment like our Shea Body Butter or Lemon Rose Body Oil to lock in hydration. Neck. Shorter necklines leave our neck exposed to damage, much like our faces. Make it a habit to apply sunscreen and follow the same regimen as you do for your face. It’s important year round, but especially during the summer. Back of Hands. Much like your neck, your hands are prone to sun damage. Give them the same amount of care as your neck and face. Moisturize regularly, especially after showering or bathing or washing dishes. Taking care of the skin on your body is fantastic way to slip in some me time, ensuring that you aren’t neglecting your self care. Here’s to a safe and healthy, happy summer!

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